What is a CNA?

A CNA is a certified nursing assistant. A CNA gives basic care, assisting patients with activities of daily living (ADLs):

• Bathing
• Grooming
• Dressing/undressing
• Eating
• Movement/mobility
• Ensuring a safe environment
• Toileting

Choosing to become a CNA

As a CNA you will help people who may be elderly, lonely, physically weak, and may be battling diseases and illness. CNAs work under a licensed nurse. The job can also be physically demanding, sometimes requiring you to be on your feet most of the time you are working.

• Variety. CNAs work in a variety of environments such as hospitals, nursing homes, and patient’s homes, helping different types of patients with different needs.
• Network options/opportunities. CNAs have the opportunity to work with and meet a variety of people. This allows for finding out about opportunities that may exist to further your experience and education.
• Job satisfaction and stability. CNAs are needed to help the aging population which is growing and other people who are sick temporarily or chronically. It is fulfilling to provide valuable information to the team.
• Compensation. The average yearly salary for a certified nursing assistant is $30,720. It can differ based on experience, geographical location, and employer.
• Affordability. Cost for a CNA education can range from a few hundred dollars up to $3,000. Mckallen Medical Training offers an affordable online CNA program with flexible payment plans.
• Emotionally rewarding. Being a CNA is emotionally rewarding because you are helping others. You will develop close relationships with and provide emotional support to your patients. You will make a difference in people’s lives.

Can you become a certified nurse’s assistant online?

The answer is YES! More programs are offering the CNA courses online. These programs allow for the theory part of the program to be completed. In California, 60 hours of theory and 100 hours of in-person clinical are required.

Difference between online CNA courses and conventional study

The difference between online courses and an in-person program is that the online program allows you to complete the theory part of the program online.

• Flexibility. This online program allows you to complete a portion of the program at a time and place convenient for you, working around your personal schedule, saving time and money on transportation costs.
• Quality. The quality of the program is better because you can study at your own pace. 
• Individual attention. You may have questions and can have them answered as you contact your instructor one on one.
• Asynchronous environment. This environment allows you the flexibility to access your work to study when it is convenient for you. It does take some discipline to make the time to study.
• Networking. You will be able to interact with other students and your instructor on Google and Zoom. You will meet people and communicate through these platforms and email.

Prerequisites to study certified nurse assistant programs online

Prerequisites for this program are the following:

1. Clear criminal record. You must pass a criminal background check.
2. Be at least 16 years or above. You must be at least 16 years old to take this course. If you are under 18, you must have parent or guardian permission.
3. Valid ID. A government photo identification is required.
4. Social security number. A social security card is required.

Advantages of online CNA training programs

Advantages include flexibility, decreased length of time the program may take, and smaller classrooms.

• Shorter duration. Since you will have online access to the course materials to complete at your convenience, you may be able to complete the online assignments quicker than you would in a classroom setting.
• Flexible hours. Classes are accessible to you online so you choose when you will study.
• Smaller classes. Smaller classes allow you to have more one on one time with your instructor.
• Improved results. Results from individualized attention you will receive will help you to thoroughly understand the information resulting in your passing the state certification exam.
• Affordability. This certification costs less than nursing school and may be your “foot in the door” to see if you want to continue in the healthcare field as a CNA or another career in the medical field.

What to look for when selecting an online school

Here are some of the the things you should consider when researching online CNA programs:

• Certificate of accreditation. Accredited means that it meets education standards verified by the U.S. Department of Education. The school must be approved by the California State Board.
• Cost of course. The cost of this program is $1650. It includes a textbook, one uniform, CPR and BLS certifications, and job assistance.
• Practical exam location. The location of the practical part of the certification exam should be convenient for you to access.
• Possible internships or preceptorships. Preceptorships and  internships allow you to get experience and possibly get hired after completion.

What to do after completing the online CNA course

After completing the online CNA course, you can take the certification exam. Once you pass you can then practice as a certified nursing assistant.

Continue your studies

You may decide to continue your studies and obtain a CNA specialty such as a Certified Alzheimer Caregiver. Becoming a CNA may be a stepping stone to continuing your education as an LPN or RN. You can work as a CNA which will provide you with hands-on experience as you are going to school.

Begin your search for a job

There are many work opportunities for CNAS. Some of the most common are:

• Nursing home. Nursing homes hire CNAs. It is a great place to gain valuable experience and it is very rewarding to care for a population that is often forgotten.
• Hospitals. Hospitals can provide a place that may be faster paced, depending on the unit you are assigned to. You care for patients that are acutely ill and have problems that will be stabilized.
• Home health. Working with patients in their home is another possibility.

Enroll in our online CNA program today